56th session of the Human Rights Council
18 June to 12 July 2024
Statement delivered during the Enhanced Interactive Dialogue on Afghanistan
Geneva, 18 June 2024
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Thank you, Mr. President,
 
Albania thanks Special Rapporteur for his report and observations on the recent developments, especially over the situation of women and girls, in the country.
 
Since the Taliban takeover, women and girls in Afghanistan have endured unimaginable suffering, subject to systematic gender-based discrimination and grave human rights violations.  We are gravely concerned by the findings of his report regarding the continued deterioration of human rights situation in the country, especially the widespread, systematic and institutionalized oppression of women and girls in all areas of life. The Taliban have restricted the rights of women and girls across the country, including the rights to education, employment, freedom of movement, health and access to justice.
 
Women and girls in Afghanistan are at increased risk of forced marriage, particularly where their families are under financial pressure. Despite an order issued to prohibit forced marriages, allegations persist that the Taliban has been involved in forced and child marriages without legal consequences, especially in rural and remote areas. The systematic exclusion of women and girls from education continues to be a widespread practice and will have an immense and enduring impact over the future of the country.
 
Albania has praised the courage, resilience, and strength of Afghan women, who continue to stand up for their fundamental rights – including their freedom of expression, freedom from discrimination and freedom of movement, the rights to peaceful assembly and education – and bravely denounce the regime’s brutality.
 
Respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, as well as meaningful participation in all spheres of public life for all Afghan people, are essential to guarantee the country’s stability and development.
 
Thank you.